Helping Women Writers & Entrepreneurs Write Their Truth

November: The Month of Writing

For those who spend the entire year toiling about writing the novel they just can’t seem to get to, November is the month of writing. Not to say that you shouldn’t write any other month, but this month is the one where you can be encouraged and supported by folks from all over.

What is this awesome inspiration, you ask.

It is no other than NaNoWriMo, which stands for National Novel Writing Month.

What Is National Novel Writing Month?

Simply put, NaNoWriMo is a writing exercise started in 1999 by a group of friends with the goal of reaching a 50,000-word count. Also, it was a way for people to gain confidence through community encouragement. Honestly, it’s a pretty awesome idea I wish I thought of but those cool San Francisco kids got to it first.

Each year this simple writing exercise became an event that many writers look forward to in order to jumpstart their writing habits, including me.

Why 50,000 words?

Well, to my understanding it’s the same amount of words as the classic novel, “The Great Gatsby“. Also, 50,000 words are the average for a novella which is a good starting point for someone who’s stuck and having writer’s block. It breaks down to roughly 1,600 words per day but isn’t required.

As for the word count, you wanna know the cool part about this month-long challenge? The site has a word counter in place to aid you in your endeavors. Awesome, right?

Note: You are not required to get 50,000 words. It is merely a goal to try for but whatever the actually count you will be happy you tried.

When is National Novel Writing Month?

This amazing month of writing begins November 1st and ends November 30th. It is, of course, a month-long writing expedition. Many people actually think the No in NaNoWriMo stands for November, which it could in hinds sight. (shrugs)

Where Can You Participate?

Honestly, anywhere. Just get on your computer and head to the NaNoWriMo website. Sign up for a FREE account and you’re on your way. You can work alone or find some Writing Buddies.

Also, a really cool perk is that many cities have in-person writing events which can be super awesome for networking purposes.

Note: I’ll be happy to support any writers in their quest. Just come find me.

Who Is National Novel Writing Month For?

Um, that’s tricky to answer….

Actually, no it isn’t.

NaNoWriMo is for, well, EVERYONE. Seriously. If you have the will to try your hand at completing 50,000 words then this challenge is for you. The organization is an international nonprofit and loves participation from around the world.

Note: While you can write in your own language, the sites word counters don’t work too well with non-Latin characters, so you may need to translate your work.